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Rip the Runway

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Where to watch: BET)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 16; suggested age 13.
  • Is it any good?

    2.0
  • Common Sense says

    Hip hop and fashion strut, with mixed results.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 13–16

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    A variety of body sizes are on display ... but the women are still often treated as sexualized objects.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    The featured music might occasionally mention violent acts, but that's not the focus of the show or the performances.
  • Sex:

    Some flirtatious/romantic behavior plays out on the runway, with occasional sexually suggestive actions. Models are often barely dressed or wear revealing clothing, especially during the swimwear portion.
  • Language:

    Words like "damn" and "hell" are used occasionally. Some music lyrics might get more explicit, but it's not common.
  • Consumerism:

    Way over the top -- advertisements are built into the show. Not only do the designers mention stores (like Macy's) where their clothes can be purchased, but backstage segments overtly advertise products like gum, T-shirts, and bras.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Rip the Runway

Parents need to know that this hip-hop runway show is heavy on product placement. Advertorial segments include promotions for gum, bras, and T-shirts. While some male models appear, most of the models are women, and their bodies (in a range of sizes) are given lots of attention, especially during the swimwear portion. Some flirtation and sexually suggestive scenarios are briefly played out on the runway, like when a male performer stands behind a female model and thrusts his hips back and forth near her bottom.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the power of advertising. How aware of product placement are you? Have you found yourself wanting or craving something after seeing it on television? Do you think advertising that's embedded in shows -- rather than shown in separate commercials -- is more effective? Why or why not? Families can also discuss how this show portrays the hip hop lifestyle. Is it positive or negative? Why?

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